Closed cooling system component lifespan.

[uplander]

I was reading a thread about cooling systems on here and it generated some questions.

My boat (1997) has 7.4s with closed cooling systems. I’ve had it on the Great Lakes for 3 years, but it originally came from NJ salt water.

What is the typical lifespan of a transmission cooler, an oil cooler, and a heat exchanger?

I replaced the heat exchanger on my starboard motor last season, because I started loosing antifreeze, but all of the other components are original.

I was considering changing them proactively, but they are pricey (even aftermarket).

(on a related note: I bought the one heat exchanger from Lenco last summer; they were AWESOME to work with. They put me right into production the day and callled them & shipped that day, so I didn’t loose a weekend with boat.)

Advice appreciated.

 

[cfd95]

If they're horizon motors they're only a half fresh water cooled system.
Raw water goes through the risers and manifolds. You might want to check them too.
Transmission/oil coolers 4-5 years.
Heat exchangers I wouldn't change unless you're having a problem

 

[uplander]

If they're horizon motors they're only a half fresh water cooled system.
Raw water goes through the risers and manifolds. You might want to check them too.
Transmission/oil coolers 4-5 years.
Heat exchangers I wouldn't change unless you're having a problem

Thanks for reply.

Correct on half system. Risers and manifolds were changed by previous owner with internally coated replacements and had less than 3 years of salt water use before I brought boat to GLs. I think they are ok. Coolers may have been changed at one point, but were not done by previous owner, so they are at least 12 years old. They aren’t super expensive. I might change them just to be safe.

 

[cfd95]

I would still pull the risers and check them 3 years is enough time to do some damage to them just for piece of mind and change the gaskets between the spacers too if they're fine.
I would do the coolers I had my starboard trans one fail allowing salt water to get into transmission
I'm replacing them every 5 years now.